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Sonny Bill Williams responds after Fiji player's awful tragedy at Rugby World Cup

Fijian centre Josua Tuisova found out about the tragic news hours before the game.

riley morgan
Sports Reporter
·4-min read
Josua Tuisova sings and Sonny Bill Williams reacts.
All Blacks great Sonny Bill Williams (pictured) has revealed his devastation having learned Fijian centre Josua Tuisova (pictured) played hours after finding out his son had died while at the Rugby World Cup. (Getty Images)

All Blacks great Sonny Bill Williams has spoken out after the devastating news Fijian centre Josua Tuisova will play in the final game against Portugal despite the news his seven-year-old son has died. The rugby community was left devastated after the tragic news about Tuisova's son, Tito, who died only hours before Fiji defeated Georgia 17-12 in Bordeaux.

Tuisova played in the game and was credited for staying around for 30 minutes after the final whistle to sign autograph for fans. The images now have an even deeper meaning.

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Fiji are set to advance to the knockout stages of the World Cup having defeated the Wallabies earlier in the group stages. The flying Fijians only need a bonus point against Portugal to advance and sending the Wallabies packing.

And despite the tragic news, Tuisova has opted to stay with his national side in an attempt to deliver the nation a stunning moment. Tuisova's father, Isikeli Ratulevu, told the Fiji Village that his son would remain in France and miss his Tito's funeral on Tuesday.

β€œWith heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved Tito Micgabraph Donzel Ratulevu,” a statement read. β€œHe is the son of Mr Josua Tuisova and Mrs Katarina Ladoge Ramoce. Affectionately known as β€œTito,” he peacefully departed after a prolonged battle with a debilitating illness in Lautoka Hospital.”

Josua Tuisova wins the award.
Josua Tuisova (pictured left) won player of the match against the Wallabies. (Photo by Pauline Ballet - World Rugby/World Rugby via Getty Images)

Rugby community rallies around Josua Tuisova

And All Blacks great Williams has weighed-in on the devastating situation. Taking to social media, Williams said he was 'heartbroken' at the news and sent Tuisova his best wishes.

"Man only just heard the news. My heart hurts for my Fijian brother. Sending love to you and your family," he wrote. "You are an inspiration to many around the world bro."

The rugby community also rallied around Tuisova and hoped he was receiving the support needed during the difficult times in France. Many praised his willingness to stay around and sign autographs for fans only hours after the news.

Tuisova plays for Racing 92 and has enjoyed a stellar World Cup so far. He was named player of the match against the Wallabies in their historic victory. Fiji only need a bonus point to finish second in the group and reach just their third World Cup knockout stage in the nation's history.

They will play England in the quarter-final if they finish second in the group.

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